Stepping onto a property designed and curated by the team at Ground Builders Landscaping Co. feels like entering a little piece of heaven. Flower beds are intricately manicured and filled with eye-catching blooms and greenery. Hand-laid Unilock paver walkways invite you to unwind beneath a custom pergola, while a spacious patio is designed to host both intimate family gatherings and lively celebrations. Every detail reflects the company’s mission: With Ground Builders Landscaping Co., you will live better outdoors.
Jason Porto, CEO and founder, leads this passionate and collaborative team. A visionary who turned a college landscaping venture into a thriving Omaha-based company, Porto has always been drawn to big dreams and creative pursuits. Embracing challenges and possibilities, he has built a relationship-focused team that transforms outdoor spaces across the Omaha metro into beautiful, meaningful places to gather and grow.
The Roots of a Dreamer
Born in Lincoln and raised in Omaha, Porto always had a knack for dreaming big and often felt out of place in a traditional school setting.
“I wasn’t the greatest student. I was unfocused. But I was always thinking of ideas and dreaming,” he says. “I enjoyed quiet time, and I loved imagining whatever outcome I wanted.”
While pursuing a degree in construction management at the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2009, Porto launched Ground Builders Landscaping Co. as a side hustle, focusing on lawn care and simple landscaping. “I was living at my parents’ house and operating the business right out of their driveway,” he said, laughing.
It wasn’t long before the business gained traction. By 2011, Porto made the decision to pursue his dream full time.
Building a Landscaping Powerhouse in Omaha
What began as basic lawn care quickly evolved into designing complex outdoor living spaces, including patios, pergolas and water features, with a focus on bringing each client’s vision to life.
“There aren’t many challenges I shy away from,” Porto says. “I enjoy learning new things and solving our way through a problem.”
Whenever a client requested something he hadn’t done before, Porto welcomed the opportunity. His openness to learning and innovation fueled the company’s evolution.
As project complexity increased, so did the need for a larger team. Ground Builders now employs skilled designers, project managers, mechanics, landscapers, carpenters and administrators. Every client receives one-on-one attention, ensuring their space reflects their needs and vision. Designers tailor each concept, carpenters construct custom features, and mechanics maintain equipment to keep projects on schedule. Behind the scenes, administrators keep operations running smoothly.
Above and Beyond Service
A standout feature of Ground Builders Landscaping Co. is its commitment to long-term service. Beyond designing and building dream spaces, the company also helps clients maintain them.
“We offer packages that include anything from pressure washing patios to maintaining water features and everything in between,” Porto says. “We want clients to enjoy turnkey outdoor spaces without the hassle of upkeep.”
Ground Builders is also an authorized dealer of StruXure Pergola X Systems, an advanced line of aluminum louvered pergolas with motorized screens. These systems enhance outdoor living by providing protection from rain and sun, allowing year-round use.
“It really transforms the space,” Porto says. “You’re less impacted by weather, and you can enjoy the outdoors more comfortably.”
Rooted in Relationships
At its core, Ground Builders is about more than landscaping. For Porto, the business is built on relationships.
“I’m all about finding people and growing together. I believe most situations can be win-win,” he says.
That spirit of collaboration is evident across every level of the company. Vendors trust the reliability of the Ground Builders team. Employees know they are valued beyond their output. Clients can feel confident that the crew at their homes or businesses care deeply about their work and the people they serve.
The company’s latest milestone is a move into a brand-new 24,000-square-foot facility on eight acres in Waterloo, complete with an outdoor showroom, presentation room and training center.
“It’s our dream shop,” Porto says. “We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
Next Chapter, Same Vision
From humble beginnings in a driveway to a respected name in Omaha landscaping, Ground Builders Landscaping Co. has stayed true to its mission: helping people live better outdoors. With Unilock, ICPI, and NCMA certifications, a dedicated team, and a new facility ready to inspire, the future is bright.
“I’m super proud of our team,” Porto says, smiling. “We’re going to keep building spaces where people can gather, connect and enjoy life together.”
Find out more about Ground Builders Landscaping Co. by visiting groundbuilders.com.
"I enjoy learning new things and solving our way through a problem.”
"We’re going to keep building spaces where people can gather, connect and enjoy life together.”